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Energy, Fire and Water in the West

In the American West we often experience nature’s raw forces: winds and wildfires, geothermal and volcanic activity, raging thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Understanding these forces, and how they can affect the resources we depend on, like water and energy, is central to the research we do at the NWSC. We work on ways to help predict earthquakes, protect our water supplies and engineer more efficient wind power systems.

Computational models built upon natural laws and data from observations provide researchers with a powerful, important tool to help understand these complex, interrelated forces. Building, analyzing and running these computer models at the NWSC enables scientists to help address pressing issues involving water and energy that face Wyoming, the West and the world.

Scientists at the University of Wyoming and NCAR use supercomputers to help them model and visualize how wildfires behave in different types of terrain and atmospheric conditions, and how they can generate their own weather. This work provides valuable information on the front lines of wildfires, and can help protect lives and property.

Energy Production and Stewardship

The American West is rich in energy resources, including renewable sources like wind and solar power. Researchers at the University of Wyoming are studying how to meet energy needs efficiently and responsibly. They are also exploring ways to capture and remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, which could help to reduce the effects of burning fossil fuels.

Water

There is nothing more important on Earth than water—every living thing needs water to survive. University of Wyoming researchers use field experiments to develop computational models, so they can understand how precipitation (snow and rain) goes into flowing rivers, replenishing underground water sources and moistening soil, and how each of these responds to environmental changes.

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Inside the NWSC

A partnership between Xcel Energy and NCAR has produced a wind forecasting system that is widely considered to be one of the most advanced of its kind. Its highly accurate forecasts mean that Xcel Energy can anticipate when it will have enough wind energy to meet customer needs. In 2010 alone, the system saved Xcel Energy’s customers more than $6 million.